Statistics

Deaf and hard of hearing individuals are 1.5 times more likely to be victims of relationship violence including sexual harassment, sexual assault, psychological abuse and physical abuse in their lifetime.

How might they experience interpersonal violence?

Intimidation through gestures, facial expressions, or exaggerated signs, floor stomping and pounding on the table or door

Signing very close to a victim’s face when angry

Not informing the victim when people try to call on the phone or try to catch their attention

Excluding the victim from important conversations

Leaving the victim out in social situations with hearing people

Talking negatively about the Deaf community

Wrongly interpreting to manipulate the situation if the police are called

Not allowing children to use ASL to talk with the victim

Criticizing the victim’s speech and English skills

Increased vulnerability to sexual assault, can’t shout out or call for help.